Amish Glazed Donuts inezrecipes

Amish glazed donuts are a classic, homemade treat that has been enjoyed for generations. Known for their light, fluffy texture and sweet, sticky glaze, these donuts are a delightful indulgence that brings a taste of comfort and tradition to every bite. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a snack, Amish glazed donuts are beloved for their simple, natural ingredients and authentic flavor.

Amish glazed donuts have a timeless appeal, capturing the essence of traditional baking. Their classic, homemade taste is often described as rich, comforting, and nostalgic, making them a favorite treat across the United States. Unlike many modern donuts, Amish glazed donuts use simple, high-quality ingredients that highlight their natural flavors, resulting in a sweet and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Amish Glazed Donuts

Ingredients Breakdown and Substitutions

To make Amish glazed donuts, you will need the following ingredients:

Dough Ingredients:

9 cups all-purpose flour (1,125g)
1½ cups whole milk (367g), warmed
½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
1 teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter (113g)
1½ cups warm water (355g)
2 packets active dry yeast (4½ teaspoons)
2 large eggs

Glaze Ingredients:

4 cups confectioners’ sugar (500g)
2 teaspoons light corn syrup
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼-½ cup milk

For those with dietary restrictions, substitutions can be made. For example, you can use dairy-free milk and plant-based butter to make these donuts suitable for those avoiding dairy.

Preparing the Dough

Warm the Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, warm the milk until hot but not boiling. Stir in the sugar, salt, and butter until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts. Remove from heat and let cool for about 5-10 minutes.
Activate the Yeast: In a separate bowl, combine warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
Mix the Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, pour in the cooled milk mixture and the yeast mixture. Add the eggs and mix on low speed until combined. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Once all the flour is added, increase the speed to medium and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Letting the Dough Rise

First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Second Rise: Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Cover again and let it rise for another hour until doubled.

Proper proofing is key to achieving the light and fluffy texture of Amish glazed donuts. If your donuts turn out flat, it could be due to inadequate proofing time or a cold environment.

Shaping and Frying the Donuts

Shape the Donuts: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of ½ inch. Use a donut cutter to cut out donut shapes, and use a smaller cutter for the center hole. Place the cut donuts on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower each donut into the hot oil, frying one or two at a time until golden brown on both sides. Be cautious when frying to avoid burns, and make sure the oil temperature remains consistent.

Preparing and Applying the Glaze

Prepare the Glaze: In a large bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually add milk until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
Apply the Glaze: Dip the warm donuts into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack to set. The glaze will harden within 5-10 minutes, giving the donuts their signature shine.

The Origins of Amish Donuts

The history of Amish donuts is closely tied to the history of the Amish people in America. Originating from Switzerland and Germany, the Amish brought with them a rich tradition of baking, including recipes for various kinds of fried dough. As the Amish settled in America, their baking techniques were influenced by other European settlers, leading to the creation of what we now know as Amish glazed donuts. These traditional recipes have been passed down through generations, often being made in family kitchens and small Amish bakeries, preserving their authentic taste and quality.

If you’re curious about the origins of donuts in general, you can check out this detailed history of donuts that provides more insights into how fried dough became a beloved treat worldwide.

Traditional Ingredients Used in Amish Glazed Donuts

The ingredients used in Amish glazed donuts are simple and natural, reflecting the Amish philosophy of minimalism and quality. Key ingredients include:

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the donuts.
Sugar: Sweetens the dough and the glaze.
Yeast: Helps the dough rise, creating that light and fluffy texture.
Eggs: Add richness and moisture to the dough.
Whole milk: Adds flavor and tenderness.
Butter: Enhances the flavor and creates a soft texture.

These basic ingredients come together to form a dough that is soft, pliable, and perfect for frying, resulting in donuts that are both crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Unique Characteristics of Amish Donuts

Amish donuts differ from other types of donuts in several key ways. They are typically yeast-raised, which gives them a fluffy and airy texture. Some recipes even include mashed potatoes, which add an extra level of softness and moisture to the donuts, making them exceptionally tender. Unlike many commercial donuts, Amish glazed donuts are made with a focus on freshness, and they are best enjoyed within hours of being made.

Creative Variations on Amish Glazed Donuts

Toppings: You can add sprinkles, crushed nuts, or even drizzle a contrasting glaze over the top of your donuts. Apply these decorations immediately after glazing so they stick well.
Flavored Glazes: Try making chocolate or maple-glazed versions by adding cocoa powder or maple extract to the glaze mixture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Amish glazed donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for a few days if needed. To keep them fresh:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to restore their texture.

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast: Pair these donuts with a cup of coffee or cold milk for a classic breakfast.
Dessert: Use donut halves in creative desserts, like trifles or parfaits, for a fun twist on traditional sweets.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Greasy Donuts: If your donuts turn out greasy, it could be because the oil was too cool. Ensure the oil is at 350°F and avoid overcrowding the pot.
Burnt Donuts: If the donuts are burning before cooking through, reduce the heat slightly and fry for a longer time.
Dense Texture: This may indicate the dough wasn’t kneaded enough or the yeast wasn’t properly activated. Knead for a full 10 minutes to develop gluten, and ensure the yeast is frothy before mixing.

Additional Recipes and Variations

Amish Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

If you love the sweetness of Amish glazed donuts, you might want to try Amish cinnamon sugar donuts as well. Instead of glazing the donuts, they are coated in a blend of cinnamon and sugar right after frying. Here’s how to make them:

Cinnamon Sugar Mix: Combine 1 cup granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon in a bowl.
Coat the Donuts: While the donuts are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mix until evenly coated. This version offers a slightly different texture and flavor that complements the original glazed version beautifully.

Amish Apple Fritter Donuts

For a fruity twist, Amish apple fritter donuts are a fantastic option. They’re made with chunks of fresh apple added to the dough, then fried and glazed.

Add Apples: Fold in 1-2 cups of chopped apples into the dough before shaping.
Shape and Fry: Scoop spoonfuls of dough directly into the hot oil, rather than using a cutter, to create irregular fritter shapes.
Apply Glaze: Once fried, dip in the glaze as usual. The combination of apple and the sweet glaze makes these fritters truly irresistible.

Chocolate-Filled Amish Donuts

Chocolate lovers will adore this variation of Amish donuts filled with creamy chocolate.

Prepare the Chocolate Filling: In a small saucepan, melt 1 cup of chocolate chips with ½ cup of heavy cream over low heat until smooth.
Fill the Donuts: After frying and cooling slightly, use a piping bag fitted with a long tip to fill each donut with the chocolate mixture.
Glaze or Dust with Sugar: You can either dip these donuts in the glaze or dust them with powdered sugar for a different finish.

Maple Glazed Amish Donuts

Another popular variation is maple-glazed Amish donuts, which offer a deeper, more complex sweetness compared to the standard glaze.

Maple Glaze Ingredients: Combine 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, ½ teaspoon maple extract, and ¼-½ cup milk to create the glaze.
Apply the Glaze: Dip the warm donuts into the maple glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. The hint of maple flavor adds a unique twist that complements the fluffy donut texture perfectly.

The Tradition of Amish Baking

The Role of Baking in Amish Culture

Baking plays an essential role in Amish culture, serving as a way to bring families together and provide for the community. Many Amish families bake not just for their households but also for local markets and events. Donuts, in particular, are often made for special occasions, such as church gatherings, weddings, and holidays.

Amish Market Donuts

If you’ve ever visited an Amish market, you’ve likely seen rows of freshly made donuts, often still warm from the fryer. These donuts are typically sold in local markets and are a testament to the Amish dedication to quality and tradition. The donuts are made in small batches, ensuring that each one is as fresh and flavorful as possible. Visiting an Amish market is a wonderful way to experience these delicious treats in their most authentic form.

FAQs

What type of oil should I fry donuts in? Vegetable oil is most common, but you can also use coconut oil or lard for added flavor.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough the night before and refrigerate it. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and frying.
How do I get a fluffy texture? Proper kneading and proofing are key to achieving a light and fluffy donut.
Can I reuse frying oil? Yes, you can strain the oil after cooling and store it for future use. Be sure to label it and use it for similar items only

Conclusion

Final Thoughts on Amish Glazed Donuts

Amish glazed donuts are a testament to the beauty of simple, homemade comfort food. Their light and fluffy texture, paired with a sweet glaze, makes them an irresistible treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. The recipe may take some time and patience, but the result is well worth the effort.

We encourage you to try making these delicious donuts at home. Not only will you enjoy a fresh, tasty treat, but you’ll also experience the satisfaction of creating something from scratch—a hallmark of Amish cooking. Gather your ingredients, heat up your oil, and indulge in the comforting taste of homemade Amish glazed donuts.